Deep brain stimulation to control epileptic seizures

Neurostimulation, HCA UK offers deep brain stimulation (DBS) implants to help control the symptoms of epilepsy

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About deep brain stimulation for epilepsy

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) aims to reduce epileptic seizures. DBS is conducted through a medical device called a neurostimulator, which sends electrical impulses to specific targets in the brain to help reduce seizures.

The neurostimulator is a pacemaker-style device, surgically implanted in the body.

Need to know

This procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. The neurosurgeon will first implant small electrodes in the brain. The precise position of the electrodes will vary depending on the symptoms and which areas of the brain need targeting.

You will remain awake during the surgery so that the team can monitor your brain function as they place the electrodes. The electrodes are then connected to a tiny pulse generator which is implanted in the chest or abdomen area.

The pulse generator delivers electrical stimulation to the target area of the brain. This alters some of the neural pathways which cause epileptic seizures.

Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

When you have recovered from your surgery, the neurostimulator will be activated by your consultant. They will show you how to use the device and tell you when you may need to switch it off.

DBS will lessen your symptoms, but you will still need to take your epilepsy medication to help prevent seizures. Your consultant will monitor your progress over the following months.

Our DBS for epileptic seizures locations

The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Wellington Hospital

The Wellington Hospital

8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
The Wilmslow Hospital

The Wilmslow Hospital

52-54 Alderley Road SK9 1NY Wilmslow
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients

The Shard Outpatients

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Chiswick Outpatients

Chiswick Outpatients

Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London
Chelsea Outpatients

Chelsea Outpatients

280 King's Road SW3 5AW London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.